Marble sculptures first came into appearance during the age of Mesopotamia for carving crude models of animals. They gradually kept developing and got their prominence during the Greek and Roman period.
Greek sculptors paid emphasis to human figurines in stark details and contrasts and so was the case with the Romans. Marble carried a soft and translucent texture which enabled the sculptors to create a visual depth evoking realism and hence was greatly used.
With time, marble became one of the essential media for sculptors to sculpt with in order to create beautiful figurines with flowy designs.
What is Marble?
Marble is a metamorphic rock made out of limestone. It is formed when the limestone is subjected to heat and pressure over time combined with other materials.
The finest variety of marble, the one best suited for sculptors, is free from any stains or marks.
Working with Marble:
Carving a sculpture out of marble begins with choosing the right quality of marble. Once a stone is picked, the sculptor goes on to create a wax or clay model of the desired visual in order to have an example to work from. However, a sculptor might also opt to carve out of imagination as was the case with most Renaissance sculptors.
The process of carving begins with chiseling the basic shape out of the block of stone. A point chisel is often used for this purpose using which unwanted pieces of stone are pitched off.
After obtaining a basic shape, larger details like folds and turns are carved to bring out features and characteristics. The sculptor then goes on to carve the finer details that beautify and add grandeur to the sculpture.
The final stage in sculpting out of marble is polishing the surface for a smoother finish. A sandpaper or sand cloth is often used for this purpose. Iron and tin oxides are applied for obtaining a reflective surface.
Some exquisite marble models from our collection:
1. Abhedabhava: Radha and Krishna, Embracing in love:
The love story of Radha and Krishna is much adored and often repeated through Indian mythology, folklore, and songs. Such love, that sustained time and distance, is also a common subject for sculptors.
Carved to perfection and adorned with bright, vibrant clothes and jewelry, this is one of the finest depictions of the lord and goddess in marble.
To customize and order, click here.
2. Gayathri: Goddess of Knowledge and Wisdom:
Goddess Saraswati, also known in some tales as Devi Gayathri, is the Hindu goddess of knowledge and wisdom. Known for her purity, she is often depicted in white clothing, holding a Veena and Vedic scriptures- seated on a Lotus.
Pure white marble with bright golden lining and stark features makes this sculpture a beautiful idol to be placed in your Puja room. What’s more, it is said that whoever welcomes Saraswati into their lives is sure to gain immense knowledge and wisdom.
Click here to see more details about this product:
3. Ekadantha: Ganesha, The Elephant God:
The elephant-headed Hindu god- Lord Ganesha- is one of the most revered and beloved. No auspicious event is ever commenced without a Ganapati puja.
He is said to be a boon-granter. Bring this idol today to spread the divine energy.
Find this sculpture here.
Every month, we curate a choice collection of our products and discuss the history behind them, as well as their process of making, in our newsletter. Subscribe to our newsletter and stay tuned for more updates!